Mr. John Kearney:

The particular area the Deputy alluded to, dual enrolment of fostering greater engagement integration between a special class, the whole school itself and then by wider extension with special schools, that is an area of development that needs to be prioritised. Unfortunately from our perspective, there are capacity issues in delivering on that.

The breakdown in placements is a very astute observation as well because it is our thinking each individual placement would have to be reviewed on an annual basis because that alludes back to the chief inspector's report as well, so there is significant work and progression. We would very much like to have a role in that but unfortunately as we currently stand there are capacity issues with that. I have worked with the Deputy's colleague at ministerial level. Both Ministers are aware of it in terms of additional support and resources for the NCSE and likewise with the Department. We are progressing that with a view to delivering on those very incisive observations the Deputy has made there on supporting-----